Carpenter Square Theatre’s upcoming production spotlights a small market’s love for its pro basketball team
Carpenter Square Theatre in Oklahoma City opens its 43rd Season with “King James” by Rajiv Joseph, September 11-27. All performances are at the theatre’s venue, located at 1009 W. Reno in the West Village.
The title “King James” refers to LeBron James. The comedic story follows two young men, Matt & Shawn, who are huge Cleveland Basketball fans and the ups and downs of following LeBron’s career over a 12-year period, which includes his rookie season, The Decision, The Return and the 2016 Championship.
In their journey, Matt & Shawn develop an endearing and turbulent friendship through their shared love of basketball.
Lilli Bassett directs the cast with two very talented local actors, Olen Cox & Mikael Dashawn. Lilli is also an OKC Basketball superfan and brought the play to Carpenter Square’s attention.
“Reading this script, I was amazed at the similarities between these characters and what OKC fans have experienced in recent years. They have the exact conversations my friends and I did when our superstar left for Golden State, and especially in their scene when they discuss the magic of winning Game 7 in the finals.” She stresses you don’t have to be a basketball fanatic to enjoy the play. And if you are a basketball fan, you will love every moment.
This production contains adult language.
Spencer Hankins is the stage manager. Set design is by Ben Hall, Samm Scobey is the lighting designer, and Elin Bhaird serves as costume designer.
Performance dates are September 11 through September 27, 2026, on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees. Each show has 10 performances over three weekends. Second and third weekends include Thursday and Sunday. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. for evenings and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are on sale now. All seats are reserved, and reservations are recommended. Regular adult tickets are $30 with discounts available for seniors, military, educators, students, and groups of ten or more. Thursday performances feature a special reduced ticket price, and CST honors the Allied Arts OKCityCard Discount. Flexible passes, redeemable for multiple productions, are also available.
Free parking is available. Additional information and tickets are available online at carpentersquare.com or through the free Carpenter Square Theatre mobile app. The box office is open Tuesday-Friday from 1-6 p.m., and patrons may call 405-232-6500.
The Gayly online. 9/11/26 @ 5:05 p.m. CST.